20% student discount on domestic flights takes effect

The Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) said students could avail themselves of a 20-percent discount for domestic airline flights starting Nov. 1 this year.

The CAB released the guidelines for Republic Act No. 11314, also known as the Student Fare Discount Act.

According to the CAB, the rules cover local carriers and students enrolled in any elementary, secondary, technical or vocation and higher educational institution. It does not cover those enrolled in postgraduate and “informal short-term courses” such as dancing, swimming, music, driving lessons and seminar-type course.

The rules stated that the 20-percent discount would be calculated from the “regular base fare” of domestic flights.

The CAB said in cases where there was a promotional fare, the student would have to choose between the promo rate and the regular fare less the discount.

To enjoy the discount, a student must present a school ID, validated enrollment form and at least one of the following: birth certificate, baptismal certificate, latest school record, naturalization certificate or passport.

RA 11314 was signed by President Duterte on April 17.

The law covers all public transportation utilities such as taxis, buses, jeepneys, vehicles for hire, tricycles, passenger trains and marine vessels.

The Department of Transportation separately waived train fares for students during select hours in the day starting July this year. It also waived airport and seaport terminal fees.